Use of fluorescent polymers in marking compositions for the diagnostic determination of cleaning performance

ABSTRACT

The present invention generally relates to fluorescent marking compositions and their use to determine whether a surface has been cleaned. More particularly, the marking compositions comprise fluorescent polymers.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/169,426, filed Oct. 24, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 15/829,006, filed Dec. 1, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No.10,155,058, issued Dec. 18, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 15/456,903, filed Mar. 13, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No.9,867,895, issued Jan. 16, 2018 which is a continuation application ofU.S. application Ser. No. 14/320,881, filed Jul. 1, 2014, now U.S. Pat.No. 9,624,423, issued Apr. 18, 2017, the entireties of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to fluorescent markingcompositions and their use to determine whether a surface has beencleaned. More particularly, the marking compositions comprisefluorescent polymers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A nosocomial infection or hospital acquired infection (HAI) is aninfection acquired in a healthcare facility by a patient admitted forsome reason other than that specific infection. HAIs can be acquired inany setting in which healthcare is delivered, including acute carehospitals, ambulatory care settings, and long-term care facilities, suchas nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities. Although certainindividuals, such as the critically ill, the elderly, young children,and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk, nopatient is immune from the risk of acquiring an infection during adoctor visit or hospital stay.

The pathogens causing significant nosocomial problems include MRSA(methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureas), VRE (vancomycin-resistantEnterococcus), and Clostridium difficile (C. difficile). Theirimportance derives from a combination of resistance to presentlyavailable treatments and an ability to rapidly spread in the environmentaround hospitalized patients. MRSA causes skin and wound infections,pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. VRE is present in bowel andurinary tract infections. C. difficile is also present in bowelinfections and presents as severe diarrhea. For each of these pathogens,control with present antibiotics is problematic, if not impossible. TheCenter for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that in the United States, atleast 2 million people become infected with bacteria that are resistantto antibiotics and at least 23,000 people die as a direct result ofthese infections. Most deaths related to antibiotic resistance happen inhealthcare settings such as hospitals and nursing homes.

Guidelines for prevention of nosocomial infection include the observanceof aseptic techniques, frequent hand washing between patients, the useof single-use disposable items, patient isolation, and improved airfiltration. In addition, high quality cleaning and disinfection of allpatient-care areas is important, especially surfaces close to thepatient. Contaminated environmental surfaces provide an importantpotential source for transmission of healthcare associated pathogens,because some pathogens can survive for long periods of time. Bacterialspores of C. difficile, for example, are capable of surviving for up tofive months in healthcare facilities.

In view of the above, there is a need to assess cleaning compliance inhospitals, long-term care facilities and other healthcare settings. Onesuch method is a fluorescent marking system to assess the thoroughnessof cleaning of environmental surfaces, particularly those designated“high touch objects” (HTOs) by the CDC. In this method, a translucenttargeting solution containing a chemical marker that fluoresces under UVlight can be applied to HTOs. The dried marking solution is subsequentlyremoved by moistening with a spray disinfectant and wiping with a dampcloth. A hand-held UV light is used to determine whether the marked HTOsin the room have been cleaned.

Use of fluorescent marking systems to audit cleaning efficiency iscompromised, however, when the fluorescent mark is not thoroughlyremoved in the cleaning process. It has been found that current productswhich use small molecule optical brighteners as fluorophores leave a“ghost” mark under ultraviolet light that cannot be further scrubbed offthe surface. Typical optical brighteners have high affinity forsurfaces, which becomes problematic on older surfaces, highly poroussurfaces, and surfaces cleaned with oxidizing agents (e.g. bleach,peroxide). The presence of pores, scratches, nicks, pitting, and etchingin the environmental surface makes it more difficult to completelyremove the optical brightener from the surface. Accordingly, there is aneed to develop fluorescent marking compositions that do not leave aresidue after cleaning.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A fluorescent marking composition is provided which comprises awater-dispersible fluorescent polymer derived from polymerization of oneor more polymerizable monomer units and one or more polymerizablenon-fluorescent monomer units, a solvent, and a thickener. The polymerhas a weight average molecular weight of 2 to 2000 kDa, and has a lightabsorption spectrum in the range of about 310 to about 400 nm and alight emission spectrum in the range of about 400 to about 750 nm.

A method of determining whether a location has been cleaned is alsoprovided. The method comprises applying a fluorescent markingcomposition to a location on an environmental surface, and determiningif any of the fluorescent polymer remains on the location after one ormore opportunities to clean the environmental surface.

Another method of determining whether a location has been cleaned isalso provided. The method comprises applying a fluorescent markingcomposition comprising a solvent and a water-dispersible fluorescentpolymer derived from co-polymerization of one or more polymerizablefluorescent monomer units and one or more polymerizable non-fluorescentmonomer units to a location on an environmental surface; and determiningif any of the fluorescent polymer remains on the location after one ormore opportunities to clean the environmental surface.

A kit is also provided. The kit comprises the fluorescent markingcomposition, a dispenser for dispensing the composition or an applicatorfor applying the composition to a surface, and optionally a UV lightemitting light source.

Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointedout hereinafter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The compositions of the present invention can be used as fluorescentmarkers for cleaning processes, and are particularly suitable forhealthcare settings. The compositions are stable, low foaming, quicklydried, easily removed, and have a viscosity that allows for a broadrange of applications. These compositions form a film that is difficultto see under normal conditions and is not easily removed by incidentalcontact. The film deposited on the environmental surface fluorescesunder ultraviolet light and can be easily visualized by inspection witha hand held UV light emitting light source, such as a UV flashlight. Thefilm comprising the fluorescent marker is removed by chemicals typicallyused to clean and disinfect environmental surfaces in hospitals, such assodium hypochlorite, peracetic acid solutions, peroxide solutions, andquaternized ammonium compound disinfectants. The compositions are uniquein that they do not leave a residue or “ghost” mark when the compositionis removed during such cleaning processes.

The compositions of the present invention comprise fluorescent polymersand present an improvement over prior art formulations comprising smallmolecule optical brighteners. Conventional formulations can leave a“ghost” mark or faint outline where they were applied. This isespecially true for when such conventional formulations are applied toolder surfaces, porous surfaces, and surfaces that had been previouslycleaned with oxidizing agents.

Incorporating the fluorophore into the fluorescent polymer appears toimprove the removal of the composition from a surface so that it doesnot leave a residue or “ghost” mark. Typically fluorophores are largeorganic molecules that exhibit high surface substantivity. Substantivityis advantageous for applications such as printing or laundry wheredeposition of the fluorophore is desired. However, in the case of aremovable marking gel, the highly substantive nature of the fluorophorehas negative consequence to removal from a surface, especially a surfacecontaining pores, scratches, pit marks and other surface imperfections.While not wanting to be bound by any particular theory, it is thoughtthat contact between the fluorophore bound polymer composition and thesolid surface can result in adsorption of polymer, but that the size ofthe polymer prevents it from depositing into pores, scratches, pitmarks, and other surface imperfections. Further, the solubility of thepolymer in water also aids in removal of the fluorophore from thesurface when a cleaning or disinfecting solution is applied to a surfacevia a microfiber, cloth, sponge, mop, wipe, high pressure spray, orother form of mechanical cleaning.

The compositions can be formulated to have a viscosity which is suitablefor application through a foam applicator pad or felt tipped pad such asthose found on highlighter markers. Conventional formulations are oftentoo viscous for this type of application, and result in a thick globwhen dabbed onto a surface. The glob dries to a rough, sticky solidwhich is clearly visible where applied. In contrast, the disclosedcompositions are low foaming and quick drying and do not leave any roughor sticky residue on the surface. Conversely, if the composition is notsufficiently viscous, it can run down a vertical surface. This is ofimportance on surfaces including, but not limited to, light switches,rounded bath rails, mirrors, door handles, hand rails, touch screenmonitors, and doors where applied product could potentially run into, oronto, unwanted areas.

The fluorescent marking compositions of the invention comprise awater-soluble dispersible fluorescent polymer derived frompolymerization of one or more polymerizable fluorescent monomer unitsand one or more polymerizable non-fluorescent monomer units, a solvent,and a thickener. The compositions can further comprise other additivessuch as a surfactant, a preservative, a pH adjusting agent, or acombination thereof, as discussed further below.

The composition can be a concentrate that is diluted to a desiredconcentration range before use. Alternatively, the composition can be“ready to use” and is provided in the desired applicator at the desireduse concentration. When the composition is a ready to use formulation,the composition comprises from about from about 1 to about 30 wt. % of afluorescent polymer; from about 60 to about 99 wt. % of a solvent; andfrom about 0.05 to about 1 wt. % of a thickener. Preferably, the readyto use composition comprises from about 4 to about 25 wt. % of afluorescent polymer; from about 50 to about 95 wt. % of a solvent; andfrom about 0.1 to about 0.4 wt. % of a thickener. More preferably, theready to use composition comprises from about 8 to about 16% of afluorescent polymer; from about 67 to about 91 wt. % of a solvent; fromabout 0.1 to about 0.4 wt. % of the thickener; from about 0.1 to about0.7 wt. % of a preservative; and an optional pH adjusting agent.

The “ready to use” composition can comprise a surfactant. Thecomposition comprises from about from about 1 to about 30 wt. % of afluorescent polymer; from about 60 to about 99 wt. % of a solvent; fromabout 0.05 to about 1 wt. % of a thickener, and from about 0.05 to about10 wt. % of a surfactant. Preferably, the ready to use compositioncomprises from about 4 to about 25 wt. % of a fluorescent polymer; fromabout 50 to about 95 wt. % of a solvent; from about 0.1 to about 0.4 wt.% of a thickener, and from about 0.5 to about 10 wt. % of a surfactant.More preferably, the ready to use composition comprises from about 8 toabout 16% of a fluorescent polymer; from about 67 to about 91 wt. % of asolvent; from about 0.1 to about 0.4 wt. % of the thickener; from about1 to about 6 wt. % of a surfactant; from about 0.1 to about 0.7 wt. % ofa preservative; and an optional pH adjusting agent.

When the composition is in concentrated form, the weight ratio of thefluorescent polymer to surfactant, fluorescent polymer to thickener, orother relative proportions of ingredients will remain the same as in theready-to-use composition, but the composition will contain a lesseramount of solvent.

Fluorescent Monomers

The polymerizable fluorescent monomers used to prepare the fluorescentpolymers of the composition include, but are not limited to, compoundshaving the structure (I) to (IX), shown as follows.

The fluorescent monomers can have structure (I), (II), or (III):

wherein:

n is an integer from 1 to 10;

A is alkyl, alkoxyalkyl, alkylamidoalkyl, aryl, or is absent; with theproviso that when A is absent, E is nitrogen and E is bonded directly tothe imide nitrogen;

E is sulfur or nitrogen with the proviso that when E is sulfur, only oneof R₁₀ or R₁₁ is present;

D is oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur or is absent, with the proviso that when Dis absent, (CH₂)_(n) is bonded directly to a carbon on the ring;

R³ and R⁴ are each independently sulfonic acid or a salt thereof,carboxylic acid or a salt thereof, allyloxy or vinylbenzyloxy, with theproviso that when one of R³ or R⁴ is sulfonic acid or a salt thereof orcarboxylic acid or a salt thereof, the other must be allyloxy orvinylbenzyloxy;

R⁵ is alkyl, alkylamino, hydroxyalkyl or allyl;

R⁶ and R⁷ are each independently alkyl;

R⁸ is allyl, alkyl, vinylbenzyl or 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl;

R⁹ is hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy, halogen, sulfonic acid or a salt thereof,phosphonic acid or a salt thereof, dialkylamino, allyloxy orvinylbenzyloxy;

R¹⁰ and R¹¹ are each independently alkyl;

R¹² is allyl, 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl, vinylbenzyl,3-methacrylamidopropyl, 3-acrylamidopropyl, 2-acryloxyethyl or2-methacryloxyethyl; and

X⁻ is an anion.

Monomers having structures (I), (II), or (III) can be synthesized byreacting a substituted or non-substituted naphthalic anhydride with aprimary amine. The amine can be aliphatic, substituted aliphatic, vinyl,or a diamine such as a 1,2-diamino-substituted aromatic compound orhydrazine. Materials required for these syntheses are commerciallyavailable and can be obtained, for example, from Sigma-Aldrich. Toimpact water solubility, the resulting moieties can be quaternized toproduce a cationic charge on the fluorescent molecule.

Polymerizable moieties can be introduced through substitution on thearomatic ring or during quaternization or imidization.

The fluorescent monomer having structure (I) can be4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropylnaphthalimide, vinyl benzylchloride quaternary salt (R⁹=—OMe, A=—(CH₂)₃—, B═N, R¹⁰ and R¹¹=Me,R¹²=4-vinylbenzyl, X═Cl, wherein OMe is methoxy).

The fluorescent monomer having structure (I) can be4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropylnaphthalimide, allyl chloridequaternary salt (R⁹=—OMe, A=—(CH₂)₃—, B═N, R¹⁰ and R¹¹=Me, R¹²=allyl,X═Cl wherein OMe is methoxy).

The fluorescent monomer having structure (I) can be4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropylnaphthalimide,2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt (R⁹=—OMe, A=—(CH₂)₃—, B═N,R¹⁰ and R¹¹=Me, R¹²=—[CH₂CH(OH)CH₂OCH₂CH═CH₂], X═OH, wherein OMe ismethoxy). For purposes of this application, this monomer is referred toas “BRT1”.

The fluorescent monomer having structure (II) can beN-allyl-4-(2-N′,N′-dimethylaminoethoxy)naphthalimide, methyl sulfatequaternary salt (D=O, n=2, R⁵=allyl, R⁶ and R⁷ and R⁸=Me, andX=—OS(O)₂OMe).

The fluorescent monomer having structure (III) can be5-allyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (R³=—CO₂H andR⁴=—OCH₂CH═CH₂). The fluorescent monomer having structure (III) can be6-vinylbenzyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole(R³=—CO₂H and R⁴=4-vinylbenzyloxy).

The synthesis of monomers having structure (I), (II), or (III) isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,645,428, which is incorporated by referencefor its description of these monomers, polymers made from thesemonomers, and synthesis of such monomers and polymers.

The fluorescent monomers can have structures (IV) or (V):

wherein:

A is alkyl, alkoxyalkyl, alkylamidoalkyl, aryl, or is absent; with theproviso that when A is absent, E is nitrogen and E is bonded directly tothe imide nitrogen;

E is sulfur or nitrogen with the proviso that when E is sulfur, only oneof R¹ or R² is present;

D is alkyl, alkoxyalkyl, alkoxy, alkylamidoalkyl, alkylamino, NH, arylor is absent;

R is independently hydrogen or alkyl;

R¹ and R² are each independently alkyl;

R³ is allyl, 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl, vinyl benzyl,3-methacrylamidopropyl, 3-acrylamidopropyl, 2-acryloxyethyl or2-methacryloxyethyl;

R⁴ is allyl, acryl, methacryl, 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl, vinyl benzyl,2-acryloxyethyl and 2-methacryloxyethyl;

each R⁵ is independently hydrogen, halogen, —NO₂, —C(O)OH or a saltthereof, —PO(OH)₂ or a salt thereof, —SO₂(OH) or a salt thereof, or—SO₂(NR₂);

X⁻ is an anion; and

Z is —CH₂—, —C(O)—, —CR₂—, —NR—, —NR₂ ⁺—, —N(OH)—, —O—, —S—, —S(O)—, or—SO₂—.

The fluorescent monomer can be a sulfonated benzoxanthene havingstructure (IV) or (V), wherein Z=—O— and R=—SO₃H.

Monomers having structure (IV) or (V) can be synthesized by reacting abenzoxanthene dicarboxylic anhydride or a sulfonated benzoxanthenedicarboxylic anhydride with a primary amine. The amine can be aliphatic,substituted aliphatic, vinyl, or hydrazine. Materials required for thesesyntheses are commercially available and can be obtained, for example,from Sigma-Aldrich. Polymerizable moieties can be introduced throughsubstitution on the aromatic ring or during quaternization orimidization.

Preferably, the fluorescent monomer is a sulfonated benzoxanthene havingstructure (IV), wherein Z=—O—, R=—SO₃H, A=—(CH₂)₃—, E=N, R¹ and R²=Me,and R³=—[CH₂CH(OH)CH₂OCH₂CH═CH₂]. This sulfonated benzoxanthene issulfonated-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)benzo (k,l)xanthene-3,4-dicarboxylic imide, 2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternarysalt. The benzoxanthene can be synthesized according to the method of A.T. Peters and Y. S. S. Behesti in “Benzo[k,l],xanthene-3,4-dicarboximides andbenzimidazoxanthenoisoquinolinones-yellow and orange dyes forsynthetic-polymer fibres,” Journal of the Society of Dyers andColourists, 1989, 105: 29-35, and sulfonated according to the proceduredescribed by H. Troster in U.S. Pat. No. 3,888,863.

The fluorescent monomer can have structure (VI) or (VII):

Monomer (VI) is quinine and is commercially available from Sigma-AldrichCompany. Monomer (VII) is quinidine, also commercially available fromSigma-Aldrich.

Quinidine, also known as (S)-(6-methoxyquinolin-4-yl)((2R, 4S,8R)-8-vinylquinuclidin-2-yl)methanol), is a stereoisomer of quinine.

The fluorescent monomer can have structure (VIII) or (IX):

wherein:

M is hydrogen, sodium, potassium, cesium, rubidium, lithium or ammonium;and

n is an integer 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, or 9.

The fluorescent monomer having structure (VIII) can be8-(allyloxy)-1,3,6-pyrene trisulfonic acid (n=1, M=H).

The fluorescent monomer having structure (IX) can be8-(3-vinylbenzyloxy)-1,3,6-pyrene trisulfonic acid or8-(4-vinylbenzyloxy)-1,3,6-pyrene trisulfonic acid (M=H).

These three monomers are prepared by reaction of8-hydroxypyrene-1,3,6-trisulfonic acid trisodium salt (also calledpyranine) with allyl chloride, 3-vinylbenzyl chloride, and 4-vinylbenzylchloride, respectively. The synthesis of these fluorescent monomers isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,312,644, which is incorporated by referencefor its description of these monomers, polymers made from thesemonomers, and synthesis of such monomers and polymers.

After preparation and isolation of the fluorescent monomer, polymerscontaining these fluorescent monomers can be prepared. Thepolymerization is generally carried out in an aqueous solution throughthe polymerization of one of the fluorescent monomers with one or morewater soluble ethylenically unsaturated monomers. Various polymerinitiators can be used in the polymerization including thermal and redoxinitiators.

Fluorescent Polymers

The compositions of the invention can comprise, and the methods canutilize, a fluorescent polymer derived from direct polymerization of oneor more polymerizable fluorescent monomer units with one or morenon-fluorescent monomers units, including but not limited to acrylicacid, acrylamide, or 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid (aspecialty monomer commercially available from Lubrizol Corporation underthe trademark name AMPS®).

The fluorescent monomer can be polymerized with one, two, or threeadditional monomers to give the desired fluorescent polymer.

The compositions of the invention can comprise, and the methods canutilize, a conjugate comprising a fluorescent dye and a non-fluorescentpolymer. For example, such a polymer can be formed when a fluorophore isintroduced via derivitization of a non-fluorescent polymer. Afluorescent dye can be covalently bonded to the polymer by anappropriate functional group on the polymer chain, for example via anester, amide, or ether linkage. Here, the fluorescent dyes are pendantto the polymer backbone and not incorporated into the polymer backboneduring polymerization.

The fluorescent polymers to be used in the compositions and methodsherein are distinguished from fluorescent materials wherein afluorescent dye is encapsulated by, coated with, or entrapped within anon-fluorescent polymer.

The fluorescent polymers of the invention comprise from about 0.001 toabout 10 mole percent of a fluorescent monomer, preferably from about0.01 to about 0.4 mole percent, and most preferably from about 0.05 toabout 0.35 mole percent. For purposes of this patent application, molepercent of all monomers in the fluorescent polymer is calculated basedon weight percent of monomers used in the polymerization reaction.

The mole percent of each monomer within the polymer is denoted bysubscripts in the general formula given for the polymer. For example,for a polymer derived from fluorescent monomer unit (G) andpolymerizable monomer units (Q) and (W) having the formulaG_(a)Q_(j)W_(t), subscript a is mole percent of monomer (G), subscript jis mole percent of monomer (Q), and subscript t is mole percent ofmonomer (W).

The fluorescent polymers were characterized by intrinsic viscosity (IV)and gel permeation chromatography with a differential refractive indexdetector (GPC/DRI) using standards.

The M_(w) of the fluorescent polymers suitable for the markingcompositions can range from 2 to 2000 kDa, preferably from 3 to 100 kDa,and most preferably from 5 to 50 kDa.

Fluorescent materials (fluorophores) radiate visible light when exposedto ultraviolet light. The fluorescent polymers have a light absorptionspectrum in the range of from about 310 to about 400 nm, preferably fromabout 350 to about 400 nm, and more preferably from about 365 to about395 nm. The fluorescent polymers have a light emission spectrum in therange of from about 400 to about 750 nm, preferably from about 400 toabout 720 nm, more preferably from about 410 to about 700 nm.

The fluorescent polymer can be a random polymer of fluorescent monomerunit (I)-(VII) and polymerizable monomer units (Q), (W), and optionally(S), wherein the polymer has a formula G_(a)Q_(j)W_(t),G_(a)Q_(v)W_(f)S_(c), or a combination thereof wherein:

G is a fluorescent monomer unit as described herein;

Q is acrylic acid or a salt thereof, methacrylic acid or a salt thereof,maleic acid or a salt thereof, crotonic acid or a salt thereof, maleicanhydride, acrylamide, or acrylamidomethylpropane sulfonic acid or asalt thereof;

S is N-sulfomethacrylamide or N-sulfoethylacrylamide;

W is acrylic acid or a salt thereof, methacrylic acid or a salt thereof,itaconic acid or a salt thereof, maleic acid or a salt thereof, maleicanhydride, crotonic acid or a salt thereof, acrylamide, methacrylamide,vinyl sulfonic acid, styrene sulfonate, N-tert-butylacrylamide,N-isopropylacrylamide, N-butoxymethylacrylamide, N,N-dimethylacrylamide,N,N-diethylacrylamide, dimethylaminoethyl acrylate methyl chloridequaternary salt, dimethylaminoethyl acrylate benzyl chloride quaternarysalt, dimethylaminoethyl acrylate methyl sulfate quaternary salt,dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate methyl sulfate quaternary salt,dimethylaminoethyl acrylamide methyl sulfate quaternary salt,dimethylaminopropyl acrylamide methyl sulfate quaternary salt,dimethylaminopropyl methacrylamide methyl sulfate quaternary salt,diallyldimethylammonium chloride, N-vinylformamide, a dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate acid salt, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate methyl chloridequaternary salt, dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate benzyl chloridequaternary salt, methacrylamidopropyl trimethylammonium chloride,acrylamidopropyl trimethylammonium chloride, N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide, triallylamine, an acid salt of triallylamine, ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate, 2-(hydroxymethyl)acrylic acid, 2-hydroxyethylacrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl acrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate,diethylene glycol dimethacrylate, triethylene glycol dimethacrylate,polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate, glycidyl methacrylate,2-acrylamido2-methylpropane sulfonic acid or a salt thereof, vinylalcohol, vinyl acetate, or N-vinylpyrrolidone, with the proviso that Qand W cannot both be the same;

a is from about 0.001 to about 10 mole percent;

c is from about 1 to about 40 mole percent;

f is from about 1 to about 97.999 mole percent;

j is from 0 to about 99.999 mole percent;

t is from 0 to about 99.999 mole percent;

v is from 0 to about 97.999 mole percent;

the sum of a, j and t equals 100 mole percent; and

the sum of a, v, f and c equals 100 mole percent.

Preferably, the polymer has the formula G_(a)Q_(j)W_(t), wherein Q isacrylic acid and W is acrylamide; the polymer has the formulaG_(a)Q_(j)W_(t), wherein Q is acrylic acid and W is2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid; or the polymer has theformula the G_(a)Q_(v)W_(f)S_(c), wherein Q is acrylic acid, W isacrylamide, and S is N-sulfomethylacrylamide. G can be any one offluorescent monomer units (I)-(VII as described herein.

A preferred polymer of formula G_(a)Q_(j)W_(t) is derived frompolymerization of fluorescent monomer4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt, acrylic acid, and2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid, wherein a is 0.2, j is 80.9,and t is 18.9. For purposes of this application, this terpolymer isreferred to as “Polymer A”.

A second preferred polymer of formula G_(a)Q_(j)W_(t) is derived frompolymerization of fluorescent monomer4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt, acrylic acid, and2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid, wherein a is 0.2, j is 96.1,and t is 3.7. For purposes of this application, this terpolymer isreferred to as “Polymer B”.

The fluorescent polymer can be a random polymer of fluorescent monomerunit (VIII) or (XIX) and polymerizable monomer units (B), (C), and (D),wherein the polymer has a formula G_(x)B_(y), G_(x)B_(j)C_(k),G_(x)B_(m)D_(q), G_(x)B_(r)C_(s)D_(t), or a combination thereof wherein:

B is an acrylic acid or a salt thereof, methacrylic acid or a saltthereof, maleic acid or a salt thereof, maleic anhydride, acrylamide,crotonic acid or a salt thereof, or a combination thereof;

C is methacrylic acid or a salt thereof, maleic acid or a salt thereof,maleic anhydride, crotonic acid or a salt thereof, itaconic acid or asalt thereof, acrylamide, methacrylamide,2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid or a salt thereof,polyethylene glycol monomethacrylate, vinyl phosphonic acid or a saltthereof, styrene sulfonic acid or a salt thereof, vinyl sulfonic acid ora salt thereof, 3-allyloxy-2-hydroxypropane sulfonic acid or a saltthereof, N-alkyl (meth)acrylamide, t-butyl (meth)acrylate, N-alkyl(meth)acrylate, N-alkanol-N-alkyl(meth)acrylate, vinyl acetate,2-hydroxy N-alkyl(meth)acrylate, alkyl vinyl ether, alkoxyethylacrylate, N-alkanol (meth)acrylamide, N,N-dialkyl(meth)acrylamide,1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone, or a combination thereof;

D is sulfomethylacrylamide or sulfoethylacrylamide;

G is fluorescent monomer unit as described herein;

j is from about 1 to about 98 mol %;

k is from about 1.999 to about 98 mol %;

m is from about 1 to about 95 mol %;

q is from about 4.999 to about 40 mol %;

r is from about 1 to about 89.999 mol %;

s is from about 1 to about 89.999 mol %;

t is from about 5 to about 40 mol %;

x is from about 0.001 to about 1 mol %;

y is from about 99.000 to about 99.999 mol %;

the sum of x and y equals 100 mol %;

the sum of x, j and k equals 100 mol %;

the sum of x, m and q equals 100 mol %; and

the sum of x, r, s and t equals 100 mol %.

Preferably, the polymer has the formula G_(x)B_(y) wherein B is acrylicacid or a salt thereof; the polymer has the formula G_(x)B_(j)C_(k)wherein B is acrylic acid or a salt thereof, and C is acrylamide; thepolymer has the formula G_(x)B_(m)D_(q) wherein B is acrylic acid or asalt thereof, and D is sulfomethylacrylamide; or the polymer has theformula G_(x)B_(r)C_(s)D_(t) wherein B is acrylic acid or a saltthereof, C is acrylamide, and D is sulfomethylacrylamide. For thesepolymers, the fluorescent monomer unit (G) has structure (VIII) or(XIX).

Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymers

The fluorescent polymers can be synthesized by following the procedurefor conventional free radical polymerization in an aqueous medium. Theycan be made, for example, by (i) emulsion polymerization; (ii)dispersion polymerization, or (iii) solution polymerization. For thosepolymers containing a sulfomethylated or sulfoethylated acrylamide, thepolymers are first created with an acrylamide moiety, and then theacrylamide groups are sulfomethylated using a suitable reagent such asformaldehyde and sodium metabisulfite.

The preparation of high molecular weight polymers via water-in-oilemulsion polymerization has been described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,982,749,3,284,393, and 3,734,873; “Mechanism, Kinetics and Modelling of theInverse-Microsuspension Homopolymerization of Acrylamide,” by Hunkeler,D., Hamielec, A. and Baade W., Polymer (1989), 30(91): 127-142; and“Mechanism, Kinetics and Modelling of Inverse-MicrosuspensionPolymerization: 2. Copolymerization of Acrylamide with QuaternaryAmmonium Cationic Monomers,” by D. Hunkeler and A. E. Hamielec; Polymer(1991), 32(14): 2626-2640.

A general procedure for the synthesis of water-in-oil emulsion polymersis provided to illustrate the preparation of the fluorescent polymers.The types and quantities of specific components in the polymerizationprocess (e.g., monomers, initiators, and chain transfer agents) willvary depending upon the type of polymer (cationic, anionic, nonionic)that is being synthesized.

An aqueous phase is prepared by mixing together in water one or morewater soluble monomers and optional polymerization additives such asinorganic salts, chelating agents, pH buffers, chain transfer agents,and branching or cross-linking agents. In order to synthesize thefluorescent polymer, a polymerizable fluorescent monomer is included inthe aqueous phase in the desired amount.

An organic phase is prepared by mixing together an inert hydrocarbonliquid with one or more oil soluble surfactants. The surfactant mixtureshould have a low hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) number, to ensurethe formation of an oil continuous emulsion. Appropriate surfactants forwater-in-oil emulsion polymerizations which are commercially availableare compiled in the North American Edition of McCutcheon's Emulsifiers &Detergents. The oil phase can be heated to ensure the formation of ahomogeneous oil solution.

The oil phase is charged into a reactor equipped with a mixer, athermocouple, a nitrogen purge tube, and a condenser. Adding the aqueousphase to the reactor containing the oil phase with vigorous stirringforms an emulsion. The resulting emulsion is heated to the desiredtemperature, purged with nitrogen, and a free-radical initiator isadded. The reaction mixture is stirred for several hours under anitrogen atmosphere at the desired temperature. Upon completion of thereaction, the water-in-oil emulsion polymer is cooled to roomtemperature, where any desired post-polymerization additives, such asantioxidants, or a high HLB surfactant (as described in U.S. Pat. No.3,734,873) can be added.

The resulting emulsion polymer is a free-flowing liquid. An aqueoussolution of the water-in-oil emulsion polymer can be generated by addinga desired amount of the emulsion polymer to water with vigorous mixingin the presence of a high HLB surfactant (as described in U.S. Pat. No.3,734,873).

The preparation of dispersion polymers has been described in U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,929,655, 5,006,590, 5,597,858, and 5,597,859, and European PatentNos. 0630909 and 0657478.

A general procedure for the synthesis of dispersion polymers is providedto illustrate the preparation of the fluorescent polymers. The types andquantities of specific components in the polymerization process (e.g.,salts and stabilizer polymers) will vary depending upon the type ofpolymer (cationic, anionic, nonionic) that is being synthesized.

An aqueous solution containing one or more inorganic salts, one or morewater-soluble monomers, and polymerization additives such as chelatingagents, pH buffers, chain transfer agents, branching or cross-linkingagents, and a water-soluble stabilizer polymer is charged into a reactorequipped with a mixer, a thermocouple, a nitrogen purge tube, and acondenser. The monomer solution is mixed vigorously, heated to thedesired temperature, and then a water-soluble initiator is added. Thesolution is purged with nitrogen while maintaining the temperature andmixing for several hours. After this time, the solution is cooled toroom temperature, and post-polymerization additives are optionallycharged into the reactor. Water continuous dispersions of water-solublepolymers are free flowing liquids with viscosities generally rangingfrom 100-10,000 cP (measured at low shear rate). In order to synthesizethe fluorescent polymers, a polymerizable fluorescent monomer isincluded in the aqueous solution in the desired amount.

A general procedure for the synthesis of solution polymers is providedto illustrate the preparation of the fluorescent polymers. One suitableprocess is as follows. One or more monomers are added to a reactionvessel followed by neutralization with a suitable base. The fluorescentmonomer can be added to this monomer solution after neutralization oralternatively, to the reaction vessel. A determined amount of water isthen added to the reaction vessel, which is then heated and purged withnitrogen. Polymerization catalysts can be added to the reaction vesselinitially or fed into it during the course of the reaction. Watersoluble polymerization initiators such as azo or redox initiators or acombination thereof are added along with the monomer solution to thereaction mixture in separate feeds over the same amount of time, usuallytwo to six hours. The reaction temperature is maintained at about 60-70°C. Additional initiator can be used after addition is complete to reduceresidual monomer levels.

Other Components in the Fluorescent Marking Compositions

The compositions can be a water-thin liquid, a thickened liquid, a gelor a solid. If included as a thickened liquid or a gel, the compositionscan have a viscosity that allows them to be flowable under pressure(e.g., non-Newtonian fluids). Exemplary viscosities include from about10 to about 6,000 cps, preferably from about 20 to about 200 cps whenmeasured with a Brookfield LVT viscometer at 25° C. with a #1 spindle at60 rpm.

The compositions include a thickener. The thickener provides a means toreduce inadvertent smearing of the product before cleaning and as ameans of modifying the viscosity of the product for application.Exemplary thickeners include, but are not limited to xanthan gum, guargum, modified guar, a polysaccharide, pullulan, an alginate, a modifiedstarch, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose,carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydrophobicallymodified hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydrophobically modified hydroxypropylcellulose, a polyacrylate, a vinyl acetate/alcohol copolymer, casein, aurethane copolymer, dimethicone PEG-8 polyacrylate, poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid), a polyethylene glycol, a polypropyleneglycol, pectin, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the thickener is acellulosic polymer such as hydroxyethyl cellulose.

The thickener can be present in the composition in an amount from about0.01 to about 2 wt. %, from about 0.05 to about 1 wt. %, and from about0.1 to about 0.5 wt. %.

The composition optionally includes a surfactant to assist thecomposition in depositing on a surface as a layer rather than beading upon the surface. The surfactant can be a nonionic surfactant, an anionicsurfactant, a cationic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, a siliconesurfactant, or a combination thereof.

Exemplary nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to a linearalkyl alkoxylate, a polyalkylene oxide, an alkylphenol alkoxylate, abranched alcohol alkoxylate, a secondary alcohol alkoxylate, a castoroil alkoxylate, an alkylamine alkoxylate, a fatty acid alkoxylate, asorbitol oleate alkoxylate, a fatty alkanolamide, analkyldialkanolamide, a polyalkylene glycol alkylamide, a geminisurfactant containing aromatic or aliphatic hydrophobic groups andpolyether hydrophilic groups, or a combination thereof.

Exemplary anionic surfactants include, but are not limited to a C6-C18fatty acid carboxylate, an alkyl sulfonate, an alkyl sulfate, an alkylphosphonate, an alkyl phosphate monoester, an alkyl phosphate diester,an alkyl sulfosuccinate, an acyl lactylate, an amino acid basessurfactant (e.g., glycinate, glutamate, alaninate, sarcosinate), alinear alkyl benzene sulfonate, an alkyl aryl sulfonate, an arylalkylsulfonate alkyl polyglucoside, an alkyl ether carboxylate, and sulfatedcastor oil, or a combination thereof.

Exemplary cationic surfactants include, but are not limited to, aquaternized sugar-derived surfactant, a quaternized polysaccharide, analkyl polysaccharide, an alkoxylated amine, an alkoxylated ether amine,cetrimonium bromide, cetrimonium chloride, dioctadecyldimethylammoniumchloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, trimethylhexadecyl ammoniumchloride, benzethonium chloride, a benzalkonium chloride, Bronidox®(i.e., 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane), Glucquat 125® (e.g., lauryl methylgluceth-10 hydroxypropyl dimonium chloride), or a combination thereof.

Exemplary amphoteric surfactants include, but are not limited to analkyl amine oxide, an N-alkylamino propionic acid, an N-alkyl-3-iminodipropionic acid, an imidazoline carboxylate, an alkyl betaine, an alkylamido amine, an alkyl amido betaine, an alkyl sultaine, an alkylamphodiacetate, an alkyl amphoacetate, an alkyl sulfobetaine, apolymeric sulfobetaine, an amphohydroxypropylsulfonate, aphosphatidylcholine, a phosphatidylethanolamine, a phosphatidylserine, asphingomyelin, an alkyl amidopropyl phosphatidyl PG-dimonium chloride,or a combination thereof, wherein the alkyl group in the amphotericsurfactant has a carbon length from C₆ to C₂₂. Preferred amphotericsurfactants include β-alanine N-(2-carboxyethyl)-N-(2-ethylhexyl)-,monosodium salt (commercially available as Tomamine® Amphoteric 400 fromAir Products) and disodium capryloamphodipropionate (commerciallyavailable as Mackam® 2CYSF from Rhodia).

Exemplary silicone surfactants include, but are not limited to, apolydimethylsiloxane polyether, a polydimethylsiloxane copolyether, apolydimethylsiloxane amine, a polydimethylsiloxane phosphate, apolydimethylsiloxane polyether carboxylate, a polydimethylsiloxanequaternary amine, a trisiloxane surfactant, or a combination thereof.

When the surfactant is present, the surfactant can be present in thecomposition in an amount from about 0.01 to about 10 wt. %, from about0.1 to about 7 wt. %, and from about 0.2 to about 5 wt. %.

The compositions include a solvent to assist with solubility and shortenthe drying time of the composition on a surface. Exemplary solventsinclude, but are not limited to, water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol,isopropanol, n-butanol, 2-butanol, isobutanol, n-pentanol, amyl alcohol,4-methyl-2-pentanol, 2-phenylethanol, n-hexanol, 2-ethylhexanol, benzylalcohol, ethylene glycol, ethylene glycol phenyl ether, ethylene glycolmono-n-butyl ether acetate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol mono anddialkyl ethers, propylene glycol phenyl ether, propylene glycoldiacetate, dipropylene glycol, dipropylene glycol mono and dialkylethers, tripropylene glycol mono and dialkyl ethers, 1,3-propanediol,2-methyl-1,2-butanediol, 3-methyl-1,2-butanediol, glycerol, methylformate, ethyl formate, n-propyl formate, isopropyl formate, n-butylformate, methyl acetate, n-propyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, isobutylacetate, methyl lactate, ethyl lactate, propyl lactate,dimethylformamide, n-propyl propionate, n-butyl propionate, n-pentylpropionate, amyl acetate, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone,diisobutyl ketone, ethylamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, formicacid, acetic acid, propanoic acid, butanoic acid, acetone, acetonitrile,acetaldehyde, dimethyl sulfoxide, tetrahydrofuran, or a mixture thereof.

Preferably, the solvent comprises water. The water can be from anysource, including deionized water, tap water, softened water, andcombinations thereof. The amount of water in the composition ranges fromabout 40 to about 99 wt. %, preferably from about 60 to about 95 wt. %,and more preferably from about 70 to about 90 wt. %.

The solvent can comprise water and an organic solvent. The total amountof solvent including water and at least one organic solvent ranges fromabout 60 to 99 wt. %, preferably from about 70 to about 95 wt. %, andmore preferably from about 75 to about 90 wt. %.

The compositions can further comprise a preservative, a pH adjustingagent, or a combination thereof.

The compositions can optionally include a preservative to preventmicroorganisms from growing in the composition. Exemplary preservativesinclude, but are not limited to a phenoxyalkanol, a benzoate salt, analkylchloroisothiazolinone, an alkylisothiazolinone, a benzoic acidsalt, a sorbate salt, an alkyl paraban, a glycerin, a glycol, a urea, ahydantoin, a benzalkonium salt, or a combination thereof.

When the preservative is present, the preservative can be present in thecomposition in an amount from 0.01 to about 5 wt. %, from about 0.01 toabout 2.5 wt. %, and from about 0.01 to about 1 wt. %.

The pH of the composition can be adjusted using a suitable acidic orbasic pH adjusting agents. Exemplary pH adjusting agents include, butare not limited to: a hydroxy acid (e.g., acid, sodium salt, andpotassium salt forms of citric acid, gluconic acid, glycolic acid,lactic acid, succinic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, ascorbic acid); anamino acid (e.g., acid and salt forms of glycine, histidine, isoleucine,lysine, methionine, glutamine, cysteine, asparagine, arginine, alanine,glutamic acid, aspartic acid); phosphoric acid (e.g., acid, sodium salt,and potassium salt forms); potassium hydroxide, potassium carbonate,potassium bicarbonate, sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodiumbicarbonate, ammonium hydroxide, a primary amine (e.g., ethanolamine,aminomethyl propanol, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane), a secondaryamine (e.g., diisopropylamine), a tertiary amine (e.g., triethylamine,triisopropylamine, nitrilotriacetic acid), a diamine or salt thereof(ethylenediamine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid,N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethylenediamine-N,N′,N′-triacetic acid,tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine), a triamine or salt thereof (e.g.,diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid) or a combination thereof.

To prepare the marking compositions, the fluorescent polymer, solvent,thickener, and optional additives such as a surfactant, a preservative,and a pH adjusting agent are combined at ambient temperature and mixedthoroughly. When preparing marking compositions using modified celluloseether thickeners, it is advantageous to active the cellulose ethersprior to the addition of the fluorescent polymer. For ready-to-usecompositions, the desired amount of solvent will be added. Forready-to-use compositions, the desired amount of solvent will be added.For concentrated solutions, typically a reduced volume of solvent isadded.

Examples of commercial sources of suitable components are as follows:

TABLE 1 Composition Description Trade Name Supplier ThickenerHydroxypropylmethylcellulose Methocel ® Dow Chemical 40-100Hydroxyethylcellulose Natrosol ® Ashland 250 H4BR Xanthum gum clearKeltrol ® CP Kelco CG-T Polysaccharide polymer Pullulan ® Hayashibaraconsisting of maltotriose units Biochemical Surfactant β-alanine,N-(2-carboxyethyl)- Tomamine ® Air Products N-(2-ethylhexyl)-,monosodium Amphoteric 400 salt β-alanine, N-(2-carboxyethyl)- Tomamine ®Air Products N-[3-(octyloxy)propyl]-, Amphoteric 12 monosodium saltAlkyloxypropylamine Tomamine ® Air Products AO-405 Linear C9/C10/C11ethoxylated Tomadol ® 91-8 Air Products alcohol (8 moles EO) Proprieteryblend of C9-11 Tomadol ® 901 Air Products ethoxylated alcohols andC10-16 ethoxylated alcohols Branched C10 ethoxylated Lutensol XP-80 BASFGuerbet alcohol (8 moles EO) N,N-Dimethyldodecan-1-amine Barlox ® 12iLonza oxide Disodium Mackam ® Rhodia capryloamphodipropionate 2CYSFDiethylhexyl sodium Mackanate ® Rhodia sulfosuccinate DOS-75 SolventWater Water 2-Propanol Isopropyl alcohol Brenntag Propylene glycoln-propyl ether Dowanol ® PnP Dow Chemical Dipropylene glycol n-propylDowanol ® DPnP Dow Chemical ether Propylene glycol methyl etherDowanol ® PM Dow Chemical Preservative 1,2-Benzisothiazolin-3-oneProxel ® GXL Arch Biocides Phenoxyethanol Phenoxetol ® Clariant Sodiumbenzoate EMERALD KALAMA CHEMICAL, LLC Chloro methyl isothiazolinoneKathon ® CG Dow Chemical pH Sodium hydroxide (50% soln. in Sigma-AldrichAdjusting water) agent Citric acid (50% soln. in water) Tri-ChemIndustries

Use of Fluorescent Marking Compositions

Cleaning of patient rooms is an ongoing process in a hospital. Eachpatient occupying a room can be subject to pathogens left by a prioroccupant of the hospital and, in turn, can insert his or her specificpathogens into the room environment. During the patient'shospitalization, pathogens can also be introduced into the room bycontact with healthcare providers, staff, and visitors. An aim of roomcleaning is to decrease the likelihood of the environmental transmissionof infection to an occupant of the room. Some room sites are cleaneddaily while others are cleaned following patient occupation. Generally,such cleaning is unsupervised. Correlation of the health of roomoccupants could provide an indication of the quality of the cleaning,although with significant effort and with significant delay.

Examples discussed below illustrate where monitoring can provide timelyassessment as to whether current cleaning activities are consistent withcontrol over nosocomial infections any can have the potential forobjectively evaluating cleaning and disinfecting activities in varioushealthcare settings. A nontoxic composition containing a polymer whichfluoresces with exposure to UV light is inconspicuous yet can be readilyremoved by housekeeping products. Small volumes of the disclosedcomposition can be confidentially applied to target sites in patientrooms following cleaning and the targets reevaluated following cleaning.

The monitoring method can indicate acceptable cleaning of traditionalsites but poor cleaning of other sites which have significant potentialfor harboring and transmitting microbial pathogens. An integratedprogram can identify such deficiencies in hospital cleaning and targetremediation efforts so as to accelerate reduction in pathogen levels.

For example, a hospital room typically comprises a bed in associationwith bed rails, bed tray, drape, and drape support. Patient call box andtelephone are generally located near the bed and provide communication,where the telephone rests on a table. A chair often is present andprovides additional seating. A sink including a faucet, handles, andbedpan flushing device provide a cleansing facility. A toilet containinga sink and handle resides in the patient bathroom. A grab bar providessupport for a patient in using the toilet. Entry into the room andbathroom is through doors typically via engagement of a handle or pushplate. Room lights can be adjusted by a room light switch monitored on aroom light switch plate. Bathroom lights can be adjusted by a bathroomlight switch mounted on a bathroom light switch plate. The hospital roomcan have a television whose operation is controlled by a remote controldevice. The room can have a work station with a computer, keyboard, andkeyboard hand rest.

Target locations for monitoring are those which correspond to areas of asurface and can be chosen based on their classification as “high touchobjects” (HTOs). Such targets can include a toilet handle, a toiletseat, a bedpan flushing device, a faucet handle, a doorknob or doorhandle, a push plate, a grab plate, a toilet area grab bar, a telephonereceiver, a call button, a table, a chair seat, a chair arm, a bedrail,a drape, a room light switch, a computer mouse, a keyboard wrist rest,and a soap dispenser.

To the degree possible, suitable locations for the compositions includean area which is easily accessible for cleaning and in close proximityto the portion of the object most frequently contaminated by patients'and health care workers' hands. As a consequence of this separation, thecomposition placed in these locations is not subject to removal by theactions of the patient during the interval between placement of thecomposition and the subsequent examination of the location. In addition,proximity of the location to areas subject to patient contact makesprobable that cleaning of the composition correlates with cleaning ofthe patient contact areas. An example is a toilet handle that isseparated from, but in the proximity of the area most likely to receivepatient contact during use and be contaminated.

The composition can be controllably applied to a location by anapplicator or applicator system. The disclosed compositions can beapplied with a broad range of applicators, including but not limited toa spray applicator (e.g., with a spray angle of 5° to 600 or 15° to30°), a foam pad applicator, a shoe-polish type applicator, a felt tipapplicator (similar to a highlighter marker), a brush, a roll, a wipe,or a solid form (e.g. eraser style, solid pen, chalk, etc.). Theapplicator can be a plastic squeeze bottle or a combination of a squeezebottle or ampule with a foam pad attached to the end. The disclosedcompositions can have a viscosity that allows for other methods ofapplication which were not previously acceptable for currently availableformulations, such as dispensing into an individual gel applicator or anapplicator pad or felt tipped pad as those found on highlighter markers.

The compositions can be inconspicuous, transparent, semi-transparent,opaque, or semi-opaque, either in the applicator, on a surface, or both.Preferably, the compositions are environmentally stable, nontoxic,rapidly dried, readily wetted by spray disinfectants, liquiddisinfectants, or other cleaning agents, and easily removed by lightabrasion.

To objectively evaluate cleaning outcomes, the disclosed compositionsare applied to surfaces such as, for example, the high touch objectsindicated herein, and allowed to dry. Since the dried composition doesnot occupy a location likely to encounter abrasion from dailyactivities, its removal can be assumed to be the result of cleaningactivities. The dried composition is transparent or semi-transparent andis generally inconspicuous, so that those engaged in cleaning activitiesare unaware of its location. This allows the cleaning staff to performtheir work without bias as to the presence of the fluorescent markingcomposition on an object.

After cleaning, the high touch objects are inspected with a UV lightsource to determine if the marks were removed, indicating whether or notthe object was thoroughly cleaned. Exemplary UV light sources emit lighthaving a wavelength range of from about 310 to about 400 nm, preferablywith a range of from about 350 to about 400 nm, more preferably with arange of from 365 to about 395 nm. This wavelength range is selectiveenough so that, when illuminated with the UV light source, the driedcomposition is easily visible but surfaces not marked with thecomposition do not otherwise fluoresce. The UV light source can be, forexample, a pen, a wand, or a flashlight. The UV light source ispreferably a pen with a radiation cone angle of 5-40°, 10-30°, or15-20°.

The composition can be a concentrate that is diluted to a desiredconcentration before use. Alternatively, the composition can be “readyto use” and is provided in a desired applicator at the desired useconcentration. The disclosed compositions can be stored in bulk and thendivided into dispensers or applicators for use.

The fluorescent marking composition is applied to the high touch objectswith a suitable applicator. Exemplary applicators include, but are notlimited to, a foam applicator, a spray container, a cotton swab, or aroll-on dispenser.

The fluorescent marking composition is allowed to dry on the surface ofthe high touch object before cleaning the HTO with a disinfectant.Exemplary disinfectants include, for example, alcohol, quaternaryammonium compounds, chlorine based products, hydrogen peroxide, andphenolics.

The cleaning solution/disinfectant can be used, for example, with amicrofiber cloth, a cotton fiber cloth, a disposable woven cloth, or anon-woven cloth.

After cleaning, the lights in the room are dimmed as low as possible,the surface of the HTO is illuminated with UV light, and the presence orabsence of a fluorescent mark is made by visual observation.

Mobile applications can be used to help hospitals record and keep trackof cleaning outcomes as rooms are inspected. As auditors inspect roomsafter cleaning, they identify whether an object has passed or failedfrom a list of high touch objects within the room. The data can bewirelessly transmitted, aggregated, and analyzed.

Based on the data, reports on cleaning effectiveness can be prepared.Such reports can include, for example, the percentage of high toughobjects cleaned, a comparison against baseline data collected before acleaning program was implemented, and identification of areas forimprovement. An example of a data collecting and reporting system isfound is U.S. Pat. No. 8,639,527, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

The fluorescent marking compositions can be used to monitor the cleaningof a high touch surface in a hospital, nursing home, long-term carefacility, clinic, doctor's office, and other health care settings. Inaddition, the compositions could be used more broadly to monitorcleaning/disinfecting processes in other environments. For example, thefluorescent marking compositions are suitable for use in otherlocations, such as, for example, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, grocerystores, hotels, banks, dental offices, spas, health clubs and fitnesscenters, locker rooms, day care centers, indoor playgrounds, schools,convention centers, office buildings, public restrooms, movie theaters,places of worship (e.g., churches, temples, synagogues, mosques), publictransit (e.g., trains, subways, buses, trams), airplanes, taxicabs,cruise ships, and ferries. Provided the inspection can be conducted inan area that allows for visualization of fluorescence with UV light, themethod and compositions of the present invention can be employed in anylocation or area where verification of cleaning or disinfection of aparticular surface or collecting of surfaces is desired.

A kit is also provided which comprises a fluorescent markingcomposition, a dispenser for dispensing the composition or an applicatorfor applying the composition to a surface, and optionally a portableultraviolet light emitting light source The uv light source emits lighthaving a wavelength range of from about 310 to about 400 nm, preferablywith a range of from about 350 to about 400 nm, more preferably with arange of from 365 to about 395 nm. For example, the UV light source inthe kit can be a 12 LED bulb UV flashlight (e.g., Abco Tech 12 LED UV375 nm 3 AAA flashlight), that emits light having a wavelength of 375nm.

As used in this description and the accompanying claims, the followingterms shall have the meanings indicated, unless the context otherwiserequires:

Fluorescent materials (fluorophores) radiate visible light when exposedto ultraviolet light. Fluorophores absorb photons of energy (hv_(EX))supplied by an external source creating an excited singlet state. Aftera finite time and partial dissipation of energy, a photon of energy oflower energy and longer wavelength (hv_(EM)) is emitted from a relaxedsinglet excited state, returning the fluorophore to its ground state.The time interval between absorption of excitation light and emission ofre-radiated light is usually less than a millionth of a second. Thedifference in the excitation and emission wavelengths is called theStokes shift. The quantum yield is an indicator of the efficiency of thefluorophore (i.e. ratio of emitted photons per absorbed photon) and theextinction coefficient is the amount of light that can be absorbed by afluorophore. The quantum yield and extinction coefficient are specificfor each fluorophore, and multiplied together calculates the brightnessof the fluorescent molecule.

Ultraviolet (UV) light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelengthrange between 400 nm and 100 nm. This wavelength range is shorter thanthat of visible light.

Polymers are macromolecular chemical compounds consisting of repeatingunits, called “monomers” or “monomer units.” As used herein, the longestcontinuous polymeric chain of a polymer is referred to as the“backbone.” All other polymer chains are side chains or branches.Polymers derived from polymerization of a single monomer arehomopolymers. Polymers derived from polymerization of two monomers arecopolymers. Polymers derived from polymerization of three monomers areterpolymers. The polymers in the invention consist of at least twodifferent monomers, and hence the term “polymer” herein refers tocopolymers, terpolymers, etc. As used herein, the term “random polymer”refers to a polymer comprising more than one monomer unit wherein themonomers are connected in random order along a polymer chain.

The molecular weight of a polymer is an average weight of the moleculesin the mixture of different size molecules that make up the polymer. Thetwo averages most commonly used to characterize a polymer are NumberAverage Molecular Weight (M_(n)) and Weight Average Molecular Weight(M_(w)). All molecular weights herein are weight average molecularweights (M_(w)) determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) usingpolystyrene sulfonate standard calibration. For detection, bothrefractive index and fluorescence detectors were used. The columns usedwere Micra® GPC500+GPC 100. The mobile phase was 70/30water/acetonitrile containing 0.15 M ammonium formate (to reducesticking of the small amount of highly aromatic unreacted fluorescentmonomer).

Having described the invention in detail, it will be apparent thatmodifications and variations are possible without departing from thescope of the invention defined in the appended claims.

EXAMPLES

The following non-limiting examples are provided to further illustratethe present invention.

Example 1: Synthesis of Fluorescent Monomer4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl Quaternary Salt (“BRT1”)

Step One: Synthesis of4-chloro-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)-naphthalimide (I)

A 500 mL 3-necked round bottom flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer(½ moon Teflon blade) and water condenser was charged with4-chloro-1,8-naphthalic anhydride (23.3 g, 0.1 mol),3-dimethylaminopropylamine (10.37 g, 0.102 mol), and glacial acetic acid(21 mL). The mixture was heated to reflux with stirring for three hours.Upon cooling, deionized water (200 mL) was added, followed by 50% sodiumhydroxide solution (32 g, 0.3875 mol). The resulting tan precipitate wascollected by filtration, washed with deionized water, and dried undervacuum.

Step Two: Synthesis of4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)-naphthalimide (II)

A 250 mL 3-necked round bottom flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer(½ moon Teflon blade) and water condenser was charged with the entirequantity of 4-chloro-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide (I)produced above, sodium methoxide (10.8 g, 0.2 mol) and methanol (25 mL).The contents of the flask were heated to reflux with stirring for fivehours. Upon cooling, the excess sodium methoxide was neutralized with 12M hydrochloric acid until the pH was ca. 10.5. The solvent was strippedand the crude orange/yellow residue was used directly in the next step.

Step Three: Synthesis of4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)-naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl Quaternary Salt (“BRT1”)

A 50 mL round bottom flask was charged with4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide (II) (3.0 g,9.612 mmol), allyl glycidyl ether (1.15 g, 10 mmol), and deionized water(37 mL). The contents of the flask were heated to 60° C. with stirring.The reaction solution became homogeneous after approximately thirtyminutes. The reaction was held at temperature for 2.5 hours, and thencooled. ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR data were consistent with the structure ofthe expected product.

Example 2: Synthesis of Fluorescent Monomer5-allyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole

Step One: Synthesis of5-chloro-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (I)

A 100 mL round bottom flask was charged with 4-chloro-1,8-naphthalicanhydride (4.65 g, 19.99 mmol), 3,4-diaminobenzoic acid (3.08 g, 20.24mmol), and glacial acetic acid (50 mL). The mixture was heated at refluxunder nitrogen for five hours and then cooled. The solid was collected,washed with isopropanol, and dried under vacuum.

Step Two: Synthesis of5-allyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole

A 300 mL Parr reactor was charged with5-chloro-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (I) (0.7 g,2.01 mmol), allyl alcohol (20 mL, 0.294 mol), and potassium hydroxide(0.23 g, 4.1 mmol). The reactor was purged for 10 minutes, sealed, andthen heated at 150° C. for four hours. Upon cooling, the volatiles werestripped and a crude orange solid was obtained.

Example 3: Synthesis of Fluorescent Monomer6-vinylbenzyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′2′-benzimidazole

Step One: Synthesis of6-hydroxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (I)

A 100 mL round bottom flask was charged with 3-hydroxy-1,8-naphthalicanhydride (4.29 g, 20.04 mmol), 3,4-diaminobenzoic acid (3.04 g, 19.97mmol), and glacial acetic acid (50 mL). The mixture was heated at refluxunder nitrogen for five hours and then cooled. The solid was collected,washed with isopropanol, and dried under vacuum.

Step Two: Synthesis of6-vinylbenzyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′2′-benzimidazole

A 100 mL round bottom flask was charged with6-hydroxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (I) (1.66 g,4.5 mmol), vinyl benzyl chloride (0.92 g, 6.05 mmol), and potassiumcarbonate (2.38 g, 10 mmol). The mixture was heated at reflux in acetonefor eight hours and then cooled. The mixture was then poured into water,acidified, and the orange solid was collected.

Example 4: Synthesis of Fluorescent Monomer 8-(allyloxy)-1,3,6-pyreneTrisulfonic Acid, Trisodium Salt

A 100 mL flask was charged with 8-hydroxy-1,3,6-pyrene trisulfonic acid(2.62 g, 5.0 mmol) and dry dimethyl sulfoxide (25 mL) under a nitrogenatmosphere. A 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution (6.0 mmol) wasadded, and the reaction mixture was stirred for twenty minutes at roomtemperature. In one portion, allyl chloride (0.46 g, 6.0 mmol) wasadded. Stirring was continued at room temperature for an additional sixhours. The reaction mixture was filtered to remove sodium chloride, thendimethyl sulfoxide solvent was distilled off under vacuum (1.0 torr) at40° C. The residue was stirred in 100 mL acetone. Insoluble product wasfiltered, collected, and dried to give 8-(allyloxy)-1,3,6-pyrenetrisulfonic acid, trisodium salt as a yellow solid in over 90% yield.

Example 5: Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer A [0.2 mole %4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)-naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl Quaternary Salt/80.9 Mole % Acrylic Acid/18.9Mole % 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane Sulfonic Acid]

A reactor was charged with deionized water (44.8 g) and4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt (0.38 g) and heated to 65° C.with stirring at 750 rpm. At temperature, initiator solution one (0.55 gsodium persulfate in 3.68 g of deionized water) and initiator solutiontwo (1.6 g sodium metabisulfite in 2.4 g of deionized water) were addedseparately at a constant flow rate over a period of 3.25 hours. Fiveminutes after initiator feed had started, 54.0 g of acrylic acid and36.0 g of 50% 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid sodium saltsolution were added separately at a constant flow rate over a period ofthree hours. After thirty minutes, 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide (0.88 g)was added. After monomer and initiator feeding was complete, thereaction was held at temperature for an additional thirty minutes.

Example 6: Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer B [0.2 Mole %4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)-naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl Quaternary Salt/96.1 Mole % Acrylic Acid/3.7Mole % 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane Sulfonic Acid]

A reactor was charged with deionized water (245.1 g) and4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt (0.38 g) and heated to 65° C.with stirring at 750 rpm. At temperature, initiator solution one (1.1 gsodium persulfate in 3.3 g of deionized water) and initiator solutiontwo (3.7 g sodium metabisulfite in 6.1 g of deionized water) were addedseparately at a constant flow rate over a period of 3.25 hours. Fiveminutes after initiator feed had started, 82.2 g of acrylic acid and 9.2g of 50% 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid sodium salt solutionwere added separately at a constant flow rate over a period of threehours. After thirty minutes, 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide (1.33 g) wasadded. After monomer and initiator feeding was complete, the reactionwas held at temperature for an additional 30 minutes.

Example 7: Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer [0.04 Mole %5-allyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole/49.98 Mole %Acrylic Acid/49.98 Mole % Acrylamide]

A reactor was charged with deionized water (125 g) and5-allyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (0.474 g,1.16 mmol) and heated to 65° C. with stirring at 750 rpm. Attemperature, initiator solution one (3.50 g ammonium persulfate in 19.59g of deionized water) and initiator solution two (10.48 g sodiummetabisulfite in 30.30 g of deionized water) were added separately at aconstant flow rate over a period of 3.25 hours. Five minutes afterinitiator feed had started, a monomer solution consisting of deionizedwater (13.57 g), acrylic acid (95.43 g, 1.33 mol), 48.7% acrylamide(193.23 g, 1.33 mol), and 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide (42.3 g, 0.529mol) was added separately at a constant flow rate over a period of threehours. After monomer and initiator feeding was complete, the reactionwas held at temperature for an additional thirty minutes. The producthad a weight average molecular weight of approximately 11.6 kDa.

Example 8: Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer [0.04 Mole %6-vinylbenzyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole/49.98Mole % Acrylic Acid/49.98 Mole % Acrylamide]

A 5 neck, 1000 mL resin flask equipped with a mechanical stirrer, sidebaffles, reflux condenser, and nitrogen purge was charged with deionizedwater (133.96 g) and heated to 65° C. with stirring (800 rpm). Attemperature, initiator solution one (2.56 g ammonium persulfate in 30 gof deionized water), initiator solution two (7.74 g sodium metabisulfitein 30 g of deionized water), and a monomer solution consisting ofacrylic acid (88.12 g, 1.22 mole), 49.6% acrylamide (177.56 g, 1.22mole), 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide (36.4 g, 0.455 mole), and6-vinylbenzyloxy-4′-carboxy-1,8-naphthoylene-1′,2′-benzimidazole (0.42g, 0.943 mmol) were added separately at a constant flow rate over aperiod of two hours. After monomer and initiator feeding was complete,the reaction was held at temperature for an additional one hour. Theproduct had a weight average molecular weight of approximately 15 kDa.

Example 9: Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer [0.04 mole %4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl Quaternary Salt/49.98 Mole % AcrylicAcid/49.98 Mole % Acrylamide]

A reactor was charged with deionized water (125 g) and4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide2-hydroxy-3-allyloxypropyl quaternary salt (0.95 g) and heated to 65° C.with stirring at 750 rpm. At temperature, initiator solution one (3.50 gammonium persulfate in 19.59 g of deionized water) and initiatorsolution two (10.48 g sodium metabisulfite in 30.30 g of deionizedwater) were added separately at a constant flow rate over a period of3.25 hours. Five minutes after initiator feed had started, a monomersolution consisting of deionized water (13.57 g), acrylic acid (95.43 g,1.33 mole), 48.7% acrylamide (193.23 g, 1.33 mole), and 50% aqueoussodium hydroxide (42.3 g, 0.529 mole) was added separately at a constantflow rate over a period of three hours. After monomer and initiatorfeeding was complete, the reaction was held at temperature for anadditional 30 minutes. The product had a weight average molecular weightof approximately 11.6 kDa.

Example 10: Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer [0.13 Mole %8-(allyloxy)-1,3,6-pyrene Trisulfonic Acid/49.935 Mole % AcrylicAcid/49.935 Mole % Acrylamide]

A 1.0 L reactor equipped with side baffles and nitrogen purge wascharged with distilled water (130.34 g, 7.24 mmol) and heated to 60° C.with vigorous stirring at 800 rpm. While the temperature was maintainedat 60° C., a monomer solution (adjusted to pH 5 with 50% aqueous NaOH)consisting of acrylic acid (88.12 g, 1.22 mole), 49.6% acrylamide(175.16 g, 1.22 mol) and 1 wt. % 8-(allyloxy)-1,3,6-pyrene trisulfonicacid; initiator solution one (2.56 g ammonium persulfate in 30 g ofdeionized water); and initiator solution two (7.74 g sodiummetabisulfite in 28.0 g of deionized water) were added separately atconstant flow rates over a period of two hours. The reaction was thenmaintained at 60° C. for an additional one hour period.

Example 11: Fluorescent Marking Compositions

A series of 148 compositions were formulated based on the componentslisted in Table 1. For each solution, its clarity and thepresence/absence of precipitate was noted. The broadest range tested anda preferred amount for each component is given in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Component Range tested (wt. %) Preferred amount (wt. %) Water 47to 97.6 47 to 56 organic solvent 0 to 5.5  0 fluorescent polymer:¹ 42wt. % solution of 24.49 to 25.06  25 fluorescent Polymer A 28 wt. %solution of 42 42 fluorescent Polymer A Surfactant 0 to 8.5 2 to 6Preservative 0 to 1.2 0.5 to 0.7 Thickener  0 to 3    0.2 pH adjustingagent  0 to 0.69  0.1 to 0.69 ¹The fluorescent polymer was either a 42wt. % or a 28 wt. % solution of Polymer A.

Optimization of the components provided a representative formulation forthe fluorescent marking composition, as shown in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Component Description % w/w Solvent Purified water, U.S.P.52.925 fluorescent polymer 28 wt. % solution of Polymer A 42.000surfactant 1 Tomamine ® Amphoteric 400 4.000 surfactant 2 Mackam ® 2CYSF0.050 preservative 1 Phenoxyethanol 0.500 preservative 2 Sodium benzoate0.200 Thickener Hydroxyethylcellulose 0.175 pH adjusting agent NaOH, 50%solution 0.150

The marking compositions were then utilized in two different fieldtrials on various high touch objects to determine if they left a ghostmark or were completely removable. In a first field trial, eightformulations were tested at a hospital on six HTOs, including a table, abed rail, a chair arm, a toilet seat, a keyboard wrist rest, and abathroom rail. Formulations 1 and 2 comprised fluorescent monomer4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide, allyl chloridequaternary salt but no polymer. Formulations 3 and 4 comprisedfluorescent Polymer A. Formulations 5 and 6 comprised fluorescentPolymer B. Formulation 7 comprised a non-fluorescent polymer C comprisedof acrylic acid and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid.Formulation 8 comprised non-fluorescent polymer C and fluorescentmonomer 4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide, allylchloride quaternary salt. The composition of Test Formulations 1-8 isshown in Table 4.

TABLE 4 Composition of Test Formulations 1-8 Ingredients (% w/w)Tomamine ® Formulation Hydroxyethyl NaOH 50% Amphoteric Number Watercellulose soln. Monomer or Polymer 400 1 99.40 — — 0.60; Monomer¹ — 293.15 0.20 0.05 0.60; Monomer¹ 6.00 3 58.00 — — 42.00; Polymer Asolution² — 4 51.75 0.20 0.05 42.00; Polymer A solution² 6.00 5 75.00 —— 25.00; Polymer B solution³ — 6 68.75 0.20 0.05 25.00; Polymer Bsolution³ 6.00 7 75.00 — — 25.00; Polymer C solution⁴ — 8 68.40 0.200.05 0.50; Monomer¹ 5.97 24.88; Polymer C solution⁴ ¹Fluorescent monomer4-methoxy-N-(3-N′,N′-dimethylaminopropyl)naphthalimide, allyl chloridequaternary salt (“BRT1”); ²28 wt. % solution of Polymer A [BRT1:AA:AMPS(0.2:80.9:18.9)]; ³47 wt. % solution of Polymer B [BRT1:AA:AMPS(0.15:96.1:3.74)]; ⁴51 wt. % solution of Polymer C [AA:AMPS (81:19)].

In the first field trial, approximately 2 mL of each formulation wasfilled into an applicator ampoule and sealed. In the hospital, theampoule end was opened to allow product to flow through the foamapplicator head. One spot was made on each HTO by depressing theapplicator firmly on the surface. All surfaces were pre-labeled toensure that correct readings were made.

Upon treatment of the sites, the spots were allowed to dry for 5 to 10minutes. Once dry, the spots were evaluated using a UV light source (12LED bulb UV flash light) with a 375 nm output. After verifying whichspots fluoresced, a microfiber cloth saturated with OxyCide®disinfectant cleaner was wiped across the surface of the HTO. (OxyCide®is a hydrogen peroxide/peracetic acid based antimicrobial compositioncommercially available from Ecolab Inc.). The cleaned surfaces wereallowed to dry, and then the sites were evaluated using UV light (375nm) for ghost marks on the surface. As expected, all formulationsdisplayed fluorescence except for formulation 7, which did not have anyfluorescent components (either monomer or polymer). Formulations 3, 4,5, and 6 fluoresced, were completely removed by cleaning, and did notleave a ghost mark on any of the HTOs. Formulations 1 and 2, comprisingonly the fluorescent monomer, fluoresced but left ghost marks on two ofthe six HTOs. Thus, fluorescent Polymers A and B overcame the problem ofghost marks observed with known fluorescent marking compositions. Theresults of field trial 1 are shown in Table 5, wherein N indicates noghost marks were observed and G indicates that ghost marks wereobserved.

TABLE 5 Results of Field Trial 1 High Touch Object keyboard Formulationbed chair toilet wrist bathroom Number table rail arm seat rest rail 1 NG G N N N 2 N G G N N N 3 N N N N N N 4 N N N N N N 5 N N N N N N 6 N NN N N N 7 N N N N N N 8 N N N N N N

A second field trial was conducted in a hospital using formulations 1-8,a commercially available formulation (DAZO® fluorescent marking gel,Ecolab), and an inventive marking composition based on formulation 4further comprising a preservative and a second surfactant. Eachformulation or composition was tested on four HTOs. The second fieldtrial was carried out in the same way as previously described, with theonly difference being the disinfectant solution used to clean thesurfaces. Here, a microfiber cloth saturated with EnCompass® quaternarydisinfectant cleaner was wiped across the surface of the HTO after theformulations had been applied and allowed to dry. EnCompass® iscommercially available from Ecolab Inc.

As before, the only formulation that was not fluorescent was formulation7, which lacked a fluorescent component. Formulations 1, 2, and 8 werefound to leave ghost marks on a table. Dazo® fluorescent marking gel wasfound to leave ghost marks on both a table and a bed rail. Note thatthese formulations contained a fluorescent monomer (Formulation 1, 2,and 8) or an optical brightener (Dazo® fluorescent marking gel) but nota fluorescent polymer. Formulations 3, 4, 5, and 6 comprisingfluorescent polymers of the invention did not leave ghost marks on anyof the high touch objects in this trial. This field trial providesadditional data showing the utility of fluorescent polymers to overcomethe problem of ghost marks observed with known fluorescent markingcompositions. Also, better results were obtained with fluorescentpolymers in formulations 3, 4, 5, and 6 and the inventive markingcomposition as compared to formulation 8, which was a mixture of afluorescent monomer and a non-fluorescent polymer. The results of fieldtrial 2 are shown in Table 6, wherein N indicates no ghost marks wereobserved and G indicates that ghost marks were observed.

TABLE 6 Results of Field Trial 2 High Tough Object Formulation bedtoilet bathroom No. table rail seat rail 1 G N N N 2 G N N N 3 N N N N 4N N N N 5 N N N N 6 N N N N 7 N N N N 8 G N N N Dazo ® marking G G N Ngel¹ Inventive marking N N N N composition² ¹Commercially availableDazo ® fluorescent marking gel (Ecolab) was used as a comparativeexample. Dazo ® is an aqueous solution comprising a fluorescentstilbene-type optical brightener (D-282 UV-Blue; Day-Glo Corporation);²Inventive marking composition based on formulation 4, furthercomprising a preservative and a second surfactant.

When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferredembodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms“comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive andmean that there may be additional elements other than the listedelements.

In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of theinvention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.

As various changes could be made in the above compositions and processeswithout departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended thatall matter contained in the above description shall be interpreted asillustrative and not in a limiting sense.

1-35. (canceled)
 36. A method of determining if a location has beencleaned, the method comprising: applying a fluorescent markingcomposition comprising a solvent and a water-dispersible fluorescentpolymer to a location on an environmental surface; and determining ifany of the fluorescent polymer remains on the location after one or moreopportunities to clean the environmental surface, wherein thewater-dispersible polymer is derived from polymerization of one or morepolymerizable fluorescent monomer units and one or more polymerizablenon-fluorescent monomer units wherein the polymerizable fluorescentmonomer unit is selected from the group of structures (I), (II), (III),(IV), (V), (VI), (VII), (VIII), (IX), or mixtures thereof:


37. The method of claim 36, wherein the surface is a surface of a HighTouch Object (HTO).
 38. The method of claim 36, wherein the surface is asurface in a hospital, a nursing home, long-term care facility, clinic,doctor's office, or dental office.
 39. The method of claim 36, whereinthe surface is a surface in a restaurant, bar, nightclub, grocery store,hotel, bank, spa, health club, fitness center, locker room, day carecenter, indoor playground, school, convention center, office building,public restroom, movie theater, place of worship, public transitvehicle, airplane, taxicab, cruise ship, or ferry.
 40. The method ofclaim 36, wherein the marking composition is applied with an applicatorcomprising a spray applicator, a foam pad applicator, a felt tipapplicator, a brush, a roll, a wipe, or a solid form.
 41. The method ofclaim 36, wherein the marking composition is applied with an applicatorcomprising a bottle or ampule.
 42. The method of claim 36, furthercomprising recording a result of the determining step.
 43. The method ofclaim 42, wherein the recording is done using a mobile application. 44.The method of claim 42, wherein the result is stored as data.
 45. Themethod of claim 44, wherein the data is wirelessly transmitted.
 46. Themethod of claim 44, wherein the data is aggregated and analyzed.
 47. Themethod of claim 44, further comprising using the data to assess whethercleaning activities are consistent with nosocomial infection controlefforts.
 48. The method of claim 44, further comprising preparing areport on the data.
 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the reportcomprises at least one of a percentage of High Touch Objects (HTOs)cleaned, a comparison against baseline data, an identification of areasfor improvement, or a combination thereof.